WD repeat-containing protein 6 (WDR6)

WD repeat-containing protein 6 (WDR6) is a widely expressed scaffold protein found on chromosome 3, forming part of multiprotein regulatory complexes through its WD40 repeat domains[1][4][6][7][10]. Its central function is to regulate diverse processes such as cell cycle progression, tRNA methylation (serving as a positional regulator for FTSJ1-driven 2'-O-methylation of tRNA), apoptosis, suppression of autophagy, and mediation of host antiviral defense. Highly expressed in the hypothalamus, WDR6 links metabolic signaling to longevity and feeding behaviors by interacting with insulin receptor substrate 4 and is regulated by nutritional and endocrine cues[4][10]. In cancer pathways, interaction with tumor suppressor STK11/LKB1 amplifies cell growth arrest and enhances p27(Kip1) expression. Although implicated in several diseases (including cancer, metabolic dysfunction, and intellectual disability), WDR6 itself does not have enzymatic activity; rather, its WD40 domain forms a β-propeller structure that serves as a stable platform for protein–protein interactions[3][9].

Other names

WD repeat domain 6WDR6Trm734WD repeat-containing protein 6tRNA (34-2'-O)-methyltransferase regulator WDR6Trm734 homolog

No drugs specifically target WDR6; mechanisms would likely involve inhibition or modulation of its protein–protein interaction surface or disruption of its complex with FTSJ1 for tRNA methylation